ESPN

Dan Rafael

  (1:33 PM)

Greetings from Las Vegas Fight Freaks! Cotto-Pacquiao is tomorrow!!!!!! It's the biggest fight of the year and I am pumped. We've had plenty of coverage so read it all and we've been doing stuff on TV for three days with more to come. We will carry the live weigh in on ESPN and ESPNEWS at 3 pm PT! Let's get to it.

Kris (Atlanta)

Does Manny have one of the quickest hands you have ever witnessed?

Dan Rafael

  (1:34 PM)

No, he has two of the fastest.

Mike (Norristown, PA)

Dan, win or lose against Cotto, who else can PacMan challenge in the welterweight division besides Floyd Mayweather? All of the other big name welterweights seem too big for Pac to handle, no?

Dan Rafael

  (1:35 PM)

Let's get through tomorrow's fight first but there's a guy named Shane Mosley out there.

juan (miami)

Dan I think you have Cotto winning by late stoppage. Can you give us your rationale please?

Dan Rafael

  (1:37 PM)

I do have Cotto winning but it's a toss up fight to me. But I think Cotto's strength and power and experience against fast fighters (and southpaws) will help him a lot. I'm not sure Manny will be able to take the shots for the whole fight. I do think Cotto will be able to handle Manny's power. As great a puncher as Manny has been in lower weights, look at the Oscar fight. Yes, he smashed him and hit him endlessly, but he never really had Oscar hurt or knocked him down. And I feel Cotto is way, way fresher than Oscar was in that fight.

Brian (LAS VEGAS)

Whats up Dan....I think a fight with Haye and Ademak would be a great fight...but is there enough money for Haye to take a risky fight like that or will he only fight 1 of the Klitschko brothers next??

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

It is a great fight and Adamek is calling him out, but don't count on it. He has Ruiz mandatory in the spring and then maybe a fight with one of the Klitschkos. There is also contract language for a rematch at some point with Valuev.

Robert (Houston)

Why is everyone underestimating Cotto?

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

I wish I knew.

JP (Columbus, OH)

I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:38 PM)

I'm about to lose control and I thik I like it! I like it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JJD (Seattle)

Speculation (at least on SI.com) is that Cotto might be a pound or so overweight. Are you hearing the same thing? Freddie's not bluffing when he say's he's going to make Cotto make weight if he is over, I don't think.

Dan Rafael

  (1:39 PM)

I have no reason to believe that at all. I have seen Miguel this week and he looks on weight. He's a pro and he will make weight.

Dan (Chapel Hill)

Dan - is there any fight that makes sense for Manny at 140? Do you see him going back down in weight if he wins or staying at welter?

Dan Rafael

  (1:40 PM)

I think the biggest money fights are at 147. I could see him maybe going back to 140 if there was ever going to be a third fight with Marquez.

Kyle (UT)

You said weigh in at 3 ET, but everywhere else I have seen 6 ET and 3 Local time. Could you clarify?

Dan Rafael

  (1:41 PM)

My bad. Yes, 3 pm PT, 6 pm ET.

Michael (New Jersey)

Dan is anyone finding it fishy that as soon as Paul Williams inked a deal with martinez, Pavlik is all ready to fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:43 PM)

I think you're reading too much into it. Pavlik is not ducking Williams. He will go into the Ornelas fight not 100 percent. He can't do that against Williams but wanted to fight this year. He still wants Williams. Maybe it can happen next year if Kelly wins and Paul beats Martinez.

Chris C. (Waterville, ME)

Hows the undercard for Saturdays PPV looking in your opinion?

Dan Rafael

  (1:44 PM)

It's very, very poor.

Brian (Scottsdale, az)

Do you know if HBO will show any highlights of the Korbov fight tommorrow?

Dan Rafael

  (1:44 PM)

I do not think that is in the cards, but on many cable and dish systems you can watch some undercard fights for free before the PPV.

Reid (DTW AIRPORT ON WAY TO VEGAS)

Dan, don't you think that manny's sparring partners were way better fighters than cotto's. Do you think that will have an impact on the fight?

Dan Rafael

  (1:45 PM)

I agree. Manny's sparring partners were MUCH better than Cotto's. Not sure what impact it has on the actual fight though.

Andy (Ventura, Ca)

Hi Dan, There's nothing like being in Vegas for a big fight. Is there any buzz or electricity in the air over in Vegas right now?

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

The buzz here is palpable. It's been awesome the past couple of days and will only increase. When you see a packed media center on a Wednesday you know it's a big fight. Everywhere in the hotel it's Pacquiao and Cotto stuff and it's great.

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

Put on SportsCenter right now!!!!!!

Dan Rafael

  (1:46 PM)

Put it on!

Rick (Marina)

I heard Arreola and Minto is official also, please clarify?

Dan Rafael

  (1:50 PM)

Yes, that is the fight that will open the HBO telecast on Dec. 5 when Williams faces Martinez.

jason (ny)

is there a rematch clause in the contract?

Dan Rafael

  (1:51 PM)

If you are talking about Cotto-Pacquiao, no.

Kayo (Harlem, NY)

Good job Dan on Hall of Fame

Dan Rafael

  (1:51 PM)

Thanks. Just so you know, that ran live about an hour ago and this was a replay.

Harley (New York)

Any fighters,actors that you know of that will be in attendance tommorow?

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

There are several fighters that will be here and I am sure many from Hollywood. More exciting to me -- Derek Jeter and CC Sabathia are supposed to be here.

Dan Rafael

  (1:52 PM)

Let me rephrase that -- Derek Jeter and CC Sabathia of the World Series Champion New York Yankees.

Michael (New Jersey)

NOBODY CAN STUMP THE RAF!!!!!

Ross (Indianapolis)

Great history lesson Dan! I learned something new as well, thanks for the great info!

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

LOL, glad to help!

Chris (Michigan)

Mr. Rafael, my friend and i have tickets for the fight. We've never been to Vegas. Where should we pregame?

Dan Rafael

  (1:53 PM)

I hope you have a great time. Come to the MGM and hang out! Plenty of bars and lounges and places to eat and great atmosphere.

Chris (Boise)

Stump the Raf, hahaha thats classic!!

Terrence (Sac, CA)

Dan, do you think that the way Shane fought Cotto - in the pocket for the most part - is not a true indicator of how Cotto will be able to handle Manny's overall package of hand AND foot speed?

Dan Rafael

  (1:55 PM)

That's a good point, but I think Cotto dealt with Judah's speed very well and he was moving.

oscar (los angeles)

dan, you think Floyd mayweather is somewhere praying this fight doesnt out sell his fight in terms of ppv numbers?

Dan Rafael

  (1:56 PM)

Maybe, but here's the deal: This fight probably will exceed Mayweather's fight.

Jose (NY)

Dan- Do u hang out with any1 in prticular when you go to fights? Is it other press folks, celebrities.. etc

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

I spend a lot of my time in my room working, but I also hang out with some of the other writers, as well as some of the PR staff and such.

Matt (NYC)

Hey Dan, can you pass this along to everyone? Its the link for the Tecate $25 rebate for ordering the PPV. Thanks. http://cervezatecate.com/conditions.html

Aliz (Jersey city, nj)

Say Martinez pulls an upset, will he have to give Williams a rematch?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

Yes.

TJ (Sunny SoCal)

is rowland another patsy for Jr. or does he have any chance?

Dan Rafael

  (1:57 PM)

See above.

Justin (Vegas )

Yeah but I still think Floyd/Marquez has nothing to be ashamed of in PPVs......it did exceed expectations

Dan Rafael

  (1:58 PM)

I agree. For Floyd to do a million PPVs for that crappy fight, I agree. Nothing but respect for his ability to sell a fight no matter how much it sucks.

Mike (Queens)

Hope you watched Ricky Hatton on Raw this past Monday. What did you think? He seemed to be enjoying himself. Definitely put on a few pounds though!

Dan Rafael

  (1:59 PM)

He put on a ton of weight but he seemed to be having fun. I enjoyed it.

Bryce (Fargo)

Will the fight be shown at most the sportsbooks and sports bars in Vegas?

Dan Rafael

  (2:00 PM)

No, you need to buy a closed circuit ticket.

Bime (Taunton Ma)

Danaconda-- I feel Cotto's jab is a speed neutralizer. Remember he's a natural lefty who fights righty, so that jab is very powerful. How important you think Cotto's jab will be for this fight?

Dan Rafael

  (2:00 PM)

Very important. I also think Cotto will need to hit Pacquiao in the body.

Jason (PA)

What will be the next 24-7 for HBO?

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

TBA. All depends on what next big fight is made.

Greg (Los Angeles)

Do you believe that Judahs PPV did more than 100,000 buys?

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Who told you that? There is NO WAY it that many. NONE. I'm not sure it did 10,000 buys. Maybe they need to move the comma.

Derek (Brooklyn)

how would you compare the atmosphere in LV to Mayweather-JMM?

Dan Rafael

  (2:01 PM)

Way bigger and better.

jason (ny)

I see cuts in this one, but nothing crazy.. Do you agree?

Dan Rafael

  (2:02 PM)

I can see both guys getting cut.

Greg P (Staten Island,NY)

Dan, has the new episode from the super six been aired on showtime yet?

Dan Rafael

  (2:03 PM)

The next preview episode airs Saturday night at 10:40, right in the middle of the HBO PPV. Ignore it and watch a replay or DVR it.

Andy (Toronto)

Can you tell me...what is Bob Arum's thought process for matching two of his prime fighters together (Pac cs. Cotto)? Is it because that both men can absorb a loss and still move on to make massive amounts of money?

Dan Rafael

  (2:04 PM)

Because Bob is a business man and this will generate gargantuan money and whoever wins goes on to massive fights and the loser ain't done. Pretty simple.

lou (seattle)

Zab's shower door is in charge of PPV tallies

Garth (CT)

Judah said on his twitter that early estimates were over 100,00 buys.

Dan Rafael

  (2:05 PM)

No offense, but I do not think he knows what he is talking about. I hung out with Zab for a little bit yesterday and he mentioned that it did well but he didn't say a number. He is in for a rude awakening when he hears the real number.

Brandon (L.A.)

Only way to make this fight more exciting is the inclusion of The Love Child!

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, the Love Child!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

sammy alsaidi (detroit)

do u think prince naseem deserve to be in the hall of fame?

Dan Rafael

  (2:06 PM)

Well, I did vote for him this year.

Cory (Dallas)

D$, you see the piece on Gatti from 360? Details didn't add up to me.

Dan Rafael

  (2:08 PM)

I did see it and it was interesting. I still do not believe that he killed himself.

Pete (Fairmount, PA)

Mr. Rafael, any Batista sightings there?

Dan Rafael

  (2:09 PM)

None yet.

Braindamaged2too (The Asylum)

D-T-M!,If tomorrow's fight is a close, majority decision do you think that they'll automatically go for a rematch? Or will it come down to the$$$?

Dan Rafael

  (2:10 PM)

In fights like this it always comes down to money but I do think there will be an immediate rematch of this fight under almost any circumstances.

jcs (winnipeg, canada)

do you think mosely will be rusty after a year off, or will he be fine since he never seems to be out of shape?

Dan Rafael

  (2:10 PM)

You just never know how an older fighter will react. But Shane is always in shape and I think he'll be ready. But Berto presents an entirely different style than Margarito did.

Antonio (Orlando)

Dan, how much do you get paid for doing this?

Dan Rafael

  (2:11 PM)

None of your business.

Steven (Rialto)

I'm a big Humberto Soto fan, but why is he fighting Jesus Chavez?

Dan Rafael

  (2:11 PM)

He's moving up to lightweight and testing it out against a beatable veteran.

Mike C. (Portland, Or.)

Based on the lackluster performance by Haye against Valuev, am I crazy for thinking that Ruiz might have a shot of getting his belt back? Valuev is slow as concrete and Haye still couldn't get that many combinations in. What would Ruiz do him at his best?

Dan Rafael

  (2:12 PM)

I would give Ruiz an excellent chance to win. Johnny may be boring as hell but he has underrated power, he's a smart fighter and he's very experienced.

Todd (Lexington, TN)

When does Friday Night Fights return and any idea on the first card?

Dan Rafael

  (2:13 PM)

I believe our first card is the second Friday of January.

David Haye (UK)

Dan, it's not too late to get on my bandwagon.

Dan Rafael

  (2:13 PM)

Thanks, Dave. It's OK. I'll grab a ride with someone else. Drive safely.

piojo (lauderdale)

I think that the first 4 rounds are crucial for Cotto, he doesn't need to win them all but he needs to establish his jab and bodywork to slow down Pacquiao. Do you agree?

Dan Rafael

  (2:15 PM)

Sure. He also needs to adjust to Manny's speed and Manny needs to be careful he doesn't caught with anything too solid.

Steve (Brooklyn)

Hi Dan do you know who will Wlad fight next ?

Dan Rafael

  (2:16 PM)

He will fight Eddie Chambers, probably in the March timeframe.

jofechi (Conakry Guinea)

Dan, why cant everyone see what I see: Cotto knocks Manny out!

Brian (Philly)

Dan, do you think people are overhyping manny or just underrating Cotto? I'm a huge fight fan and think is real even but my buddies don't even wanna buy the fight cause they think manny is gonna smoke him

Dan Rafael

  (2:18 PM)

Manny is a little overhyped now because of the Oscar and Hatton wins and Cotto is a little underhyped because people put soooo much stock in the loss to Margarito. Even if Manny wins, I don't think it's smokage. If your buds are real fight fans how do they not want to buy this fight?

Mark (Minneapolis)

Do you think Pac will go through with his post fight concert if he gets his dome rocked tomorrow night?

Dan Rafael

  (2:18 PM)

Good question. He better. They're selling tickets for $40!

Jeremy (New York)

Do you think Margarito will get his license back?

Dan Rafael

  (2:19 PM)

Eventually, he probably will.

Mike C. (Portland, Or.)

Bob Arum said he's confident that Pacquiao-Cotto will get 1 million buys and there are some people who think this fight is trending even higher than that. Do you think the fight approaches PBF-DLH numbers?

Dan Rafael

  (2:20 PM)

I don't know what it's going to do but by all accounts the prelim numbers they have from the satallite services indicate a monster. You have Top Rank and HBO PPV people walking around as though they are walking on air.

Ryan (Michigan)

I say for the holidays next month you go by Danta Claus.

Pat (toronto)

do you think Pavlik should have his belt stripped?

Dan Rafael

  (2:20 PM)

Not at all. Why? He is up to date on his mandatories.

Billy (Patchogue, NY)

I think there are now two guarantees in boxing: (1) There's only one Ricky Hatton and (2) Manny Pacquiao is fighting for "the people".

Grant (Singapore)

When you try to step back and get a little perspective from the past, I think you have to appreciate that it's already a small victory that Pacquiao is being given a good chance to beat Cotto.

Dan Rafael

  (2:21 PM)

I agree.

Super Judah (Denial(Its just not a river in Egypt))

Nobody can sell a fight like Super Judah. Aint Nobody got fake belts like me. Ya mean?

Dan Rafael

  (2:22 PM)

Hilarious.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

Easy all you Pavlik haters. The guy almost died.

Tom (Dallas, Texas)

Dan,Some David Haye fans are claiming that Sauerland does not have options on Haye and he is free to fight whoever he wants. Is this true? Frankly after that boring performance against Valuev I don't want to see the supposed Heavyweight 'savior' fight again.

Dan Rafael

  (2:23 PM)

Listen to me when I say this and listen clearly: Sauerland has options on future Haye fights. Period. Haye fans are as delusional as Mayweather fans.

CTB (Conn)

Was at the Dawson/Johnson fight this past weekend and saw Gary Shaw having an aneurysm in the ring before and after the 1st fight to lead off the HBO broadcast any idea what that was about?

Dan Rafael

  (2:24 PM)

Gary was very upset that the fighters were in the ring for several minutes while HBO was still going through its prefight commnets. He was urging them to shut the hell up and start the fight.

Nick (L.A.)

No notebook this week? Got any nuggets for the freaks?

Dan Rafael

  (2:26 PM)

No notebook this week. Been a little busy, ya know? How about this: The HBO card for Jan 23 with Luevano-Lopez and Gamboa-Mtagwa is just about set, according to Arum. As I wrote earlier today, Adamek return at heavyweight on Feb. 6 vs. TBA in Newark. And Top Rank is working on a new Spanish-language television series in the US. Stay tuned on that one.

Nick (Sacramento CA)

Hey Dan, this might be kind of a stupid question, but since I don't know how this sort of thing works I have to ask: Chad Dawson was fighting on Showtime then switch to HBO, around the same time Jermain Taylor fought on HBO and went to Showtime, was there like some trade sort of thing that caused this?

Dan Rafael

  (2:26 PM)

It seemed like that but it was not actually a trade.

Billy (Austalia)

whats the chances of PBF being ringside for the fight

Dan Rafael

  (2:26 PM)

I'd be shocked.

Matt ((portland, OR))

Dan what numbers would this fight have to do to put an end to the "boxing is dead" garbage? There are going to be TWO fights this year with over a million PPV buys, better then any UCF fight btw, and I still have to see PTI guys this week tell me the sport is dead!

Dan Rafael

  (2:28 PM)

That stupidity will never end because there are too many ignorant people, especially a lot of media people who think they know sports but are idiots about boxing. If this fight does 1 million buys, which it will do, it will the first time 1999 (DLH-Tito and Lewis-Holyfield) that two fights did 1 million buys or more in the same year. That is not a dead sport. I'm sick of that shi-.

Billy (Patchogue, NY)

How many trolls are coming out of the woodwork for this chat? I'd love to see the questions and comments that are in the queue.

Dan Rafael

  (2:29 PM)

No you don't. The question queue is a scary place right now. I should get hazzard pay.

Mike (Levittown)

I think this Pavlik sittuation is a huge blemish for boxing.

Dan Rafael

  (2:29 PM)

I think you are a huge blemish for your parents.

John (Las Vegas)

Did you ask Judah what his plans where? He seems to keep calling out Urango. Now thats a fight I can see him winning

Dan Rafael

  (2:30 PM)

Yes, Zab mentioned he would like to fight Urango for his title (which happens to be the first world title Zab won).

Charles (Philly)

I gotta be honest, Dan, money is tight. So, at $54.95 and with THAT undercard, whether I buy this PPV will depend on what kind of a deal I can get on a 12-pack of Tecate!

Dan Rafael

  (2:31 PM)

The rebate is there for that reason. Take advantage of it.

JJD (Seattle)

Is Harry Joe Yorgey OK? That was the worst-looking super-slow-motion KO my HD TV has ever seen.

Dan Rafael

  (2:31 PM)

Yes, he is OK. More upset with his performance than anything else.

Brooks (Cleveland, OH)

best comeback ever "I think you are a huge blemish for your parents" HILARIOUS

Rocky (NYC)

How much money will each figher make this weekend?

Dan Rafael

  (2:32 PM)

Manny is guaranteed $13 million. Cotto is guaranteed $6.5 million. If the PPV does as well as it figures to do, both will make huge upsides to drive their take way, way higher.

Greg (Los Angeles)

Who wins the Santos-Foreman fight?

Dan Rafael

  (2:33 PM)

I have no idea and I do not care.

STD (NYC)

Dan, do you get a lot of questions that, as funny as they may be, can't be printed on these chats? Or are the omitted questiosn just plain stupid?

Dan Rafael

  (2:34 PM)

The folks that include profanity and vulgarity will never be posted.

Chris C. (Waterville, ME)

Boxing is dead? The two fights on HBO was by far more entertaining then the MMA garbage that was on CBS at the same time.

joey (bay ridge)

no respect left for Dan. Total and complete Top Rank and Pavlik schill. If this was Mayweather can you imagine what he would be saying

Dan Rafael

  (2:35 PM)

You're an idiot. I say what I think. Period. If you don't like it too bad.

Alex (Clev, OH)

Any word on tickets for the Pavlik fight in Y-Town? Even though Pavlik has been disappointing recently, the freaks in Ohio come out for his shows...

Dan Rafael

  (2:36 PM)

Arum told me they're supposed to make the formal announcement of the card and tickets next week.

Sean (NJ)

Dan, always wondered, when you say "way higher", are you talking potentially doubling the guarantees? or just a few mil more?

Dan Rafael

  (2:38 PM)

Both guys make a set amount per buy beyond a certain threshold. So, for example, let's say they have contracts that say their upside kicks in after 750,000 buys. And they might get something like $7 a buy beyond the threshold. If the fight does 1.5 million buys that means $7 x 750,000 buys. Do the math.

Terrence (Sac, CA)

The winner of Santos-Foreman is anyone who has insomnia

Mark (Houston)

In terms of loyalty and obsession, how would you say your freaks stack up against some of the other strange fanbases out there, like the KISS Army or the clones from the Jim Rome show?

Dan Rafael

  (2:39 PM)

We have some pretty hardcore Freaks in here every week and I appreciate that.

Jimmy (Exton PA)

Danno!! Go to Craftsteak and get the mushroom risotto!! It's unbelievable.

Dan Rafael

  (2:40 PM)

I love Craftsteak but not mushrooms or risotto!

Simon (UK)

Has Amir Khan's training camp for Salita started without Freddie? Or does he find a way to divide his time between Manny and his other top fighters when preparing for such a big fight?

Dan Rafael

  (2:41 PM)

Amir was in LA and spent the past few weeks training with Freddie there when he got back from the Philippines. And Freddie will head to England after the Cotto fight to finish with Amir.

Jason (Canada)

Hey Dan, as a fight fan please tell us what it feels like to be right there and to be a part of history in this sport? I envy you, it ust be a great week to be a boxing writer!

Dan Rafael

  (2:43 PM)

It's really cool I have to say. I love it. I was thinking the other night that I have been covering Manny since he came to America and have had a chance to see all this history with him unfold before my eyes. And I have covered Cotto since Day 1 of his pro career. I remember writing a thing in USA TODAY I believe when he signed with Top Rank and have covered so many of his fights. It's really exciting to get to be here and, like you said, be in the middle of it all.

Mikey (New Haven)

I think its safe to say that Dawson will never catch on as big attraction in CT based on last weeks turn out. Agreed ?

Dan Rafael

  (2:44 PM)

I would never say never, but it doesn't look good.

Robert the Genius (Greater Philadelphia / Southern NJ)

Me and my Boy were at the fight in Hartford, we ran into Gary Shaw and Lou Dibella since we were all staying at the Hitlon. We were hoping to get a Rafael sighting but you were no where to be found. BTW the firealarm went off at 7am sunday morning!

Dan Rafael

  (2:45 PM)

I stayed at the Hilton too and was around. That fire alarm went off at 8 am and could have awaken the dead. I was not a happy camper. I had gone to bed so late it was early and it woke me out of a coma.

tim (missouri)

Have you been reading Kieran's blog?

Dan Rafael

  (2:45 PM)

Of course. And, as usualy, the K-Man has been doing a great job.

Derek (Edmonton, Alberta)

Happy CottoPac Eve Dan, I actually read an article from a UK newspaper where the writer stated that the Klitschko's, who make $10-15 million per fight no matter who the opponent, need Haye more than Haye needs them. How can you even try to have a rational conversation with someone who believes that?

Dan Rafael

  (2:47 PM)

You can't. The Klitschkos do not need Haye at all. Would they like him? Sure. Why wouldn't they like a guy they can make a ton of money against who they will knock out? But they don't need him.

Hans (Burlington,VT)

Has Arum gone on record with his pick for tomorrow night?

Dan Rafael

  (2:47 PM)

No. As the promoter of both guys, Bob isn't picking the fight publicly. Nor should he.

Steve (Hartford)

More likely place for a Possible Dawson/Pascal fight Montreal or Mohegan Sun?

Dan Rafael

  (2:48 PM)

The Dawson side said it would be willing to go to Montreal. It would not do big business in the US.

Josh (Lincoln, NE)

Impressive that even the uptight NYT is covering thsi fight, huh?

Dan Rafael

  (2:49 PM)

I think they were guilted into it by Merchant. But they are here and covering it properly. I was at dinner last night with the writer covering it, Greg Bishop, and he seems pretty excited about the assignment.

Jeff (Redondo Beach, CA)

Seeing guys like Manny and Cotto from Day 1 of their pro careers, did you something special in both of them that you knew eventually, these guys really were going to be successful?

Dan Rafael

  (2:50 PM)

Manny I didn't see from Day 1, but I saw Cotto in the Olympics when he lost and I had been keeping notes on some of the prospects and wrote that I thought he'd be an excellent pro.

Koichi (NYC)

Hope all of Adamek's fights are in Newark. The crowd is electric, he's such a huge draw at the Prucenter.

Dan Rafael

  (2:51 PM)

He'll go back to Poland at some point, but they intend to fight here regularly, so I don't think you have to worry.

David (Winston-Salem)

Bayless is the third man in the ring tomorrow night, right?

Dan Rafael

  (2:51 PM)

Yes.

bob (portland)

do u think that martinez could give williams some problems he has only lost once to marg i think it might be entertaining

Dan Rafael

  (2:52 PM)

I think it's a very solid fight and, yes, I think Sergio could make it a very competitive fight.

Dan Rafael's twin (New York, NY)

How much of a factor is Roach's experience vs Santiago's inexperience as a trainer?

Dan Rafael

  (2:52 PM)

A) I don't have a twin. B) Overblown.

Budding Journalist (WI)

Dan, does being a professional boxing writer take the joy out of being a fan?

Dan Rafael

  (2:53 PM)

Sometimes, but it's the price you pay.

Easy Goer (MD)

Dan, is the MGM loaded with more Pac Man fans or Cotto fans?

Dan Rafael

  (2:53 PM)

It seems more Pacquiao right now.

Paul (White Plains)

I place the over under at 150 comments about Pavlik that you can not, or will not post

Dan Rafael

  (2:54 PM)

Probably more.

christian (fairfax, VA)

As wild as the Judah rumors are dan it was in fact the promotional company that put on the show that put out a press release today complete with quotes from the promoters and claims of surpassing 100,000, still kinda hard to believe

Dan Rafael

  (2:54 PM)

The promoter sucks because I didn't that so called lie of a press release.

Gutterdandy (NYC)

Larry Merchant deserves major kudos for shaming the NY Times into putting boxing on the front page! Way to go Larry -- boxing ain't dead, baby!

Dan Rafael

  (2:55 PM)

I'll tell him when I see him later.

Ryan (Cleveland)

Dan, can the Freaks get your official opinion on catch weight fights? I think they are great, on the grounds that they bring some fights together which would not normally happen. However, and I know Cotto signed the contract, but to have the 147 pound belt at stake for a 145 pound max fight seems a loopy. I say this, of course, completely aware that the belts aren't worth the leather and fool's gold they are made with.

Dan Rafael

  (2:56 PM)

We've been over this 1,000 times and this is the last time. The fight is over 140 and under 147. It's a welterweight fight, so the belt is on the line. And that's the way it should be. Period.

jcs (winnipeg, canada)

Despite all of the news concerning the big fight this weekend, I admit that another thing about this chat that has excited me is the news of Minto/Arreola. I actually think that may be interesting. am I crazy?

Dan Rafael

  (2:56 PM)

Yes, you need to get your head examined.

Pauly (Pueblo CO)

to the best of your knowledge, how many times has a promoter had two fighters against one another in such a big fight??

Dan Rafael

  (2:57 PM)

Happens all the time. Don King promoted a million huge fights where he had both sides. Golden Boy does it, they all do it.

frank (Nyc)

You can also tell Larry I want to Wedgy him!

Dan Rafael

  (2:58 PM)

I think I will leave that out of my greeting.

Terrence (Sac, CA)

Desmond Howard picked Manny in Seven on the College Football preview!!! Good to see mainstream attention.

Ed (Dallas)

Dan-o, what time is the actual main event supposed to start on Saturday night?

Dan Rafael

  (2:59 PM)

Probably between 11 and 11:30 ET.

Joe (San Jose)

What do you think of Pac's singing

Dan Rafael

  (2:59 PM)

He's actually not bad!

chuck norris (texas)

Who would win, the karate kid or manny?

Dan Rafael

  (3:00 PM)

Would Manny be allowed to sweep the leg?

Easy Goer (MD)

Put him in a body bag Manny

Dan Rafael

  (3:01 PM)

The Karate Kid, not Cotto, that is.

Charles (Philly)

For old time's sake: did you get the upgrade?

Dan Rafael

  (3:02 PM)

Unfortunately, no. I was not really too happy about that.

David (Winston-Salem)

Dano, would you happen to know who your boy Brian Kenny has winning tomorrow?

Dan Rafael

  (3:03 PM)

I actually don't know. Brian is here and we will be appearing together on ESPNEWS at 12:50 PT and covering the weigh in together, so I will have to ask him.

Sara (Kansas )

How is old is Manny?

Dan Rafael

  (3:04 PM)

30

Mike (Queens)

Who is going to be doing the round by round tomorrow night? You or Teddy? And will you be doing post fight stuff or will Teddy tomorrow night? No offense to Teddy, but I would prefer you. Teddy seems to be slipping lately IMO.

Dan Rafael

  (3:06 PM)

I will be handling it.

Nick (Toronto)

Dan, I need the help of the freaks. I am in Toronto on business and I have no idea where I can watch the fight. Does anybody know?

Dan Rafael

  (3:06 PM)

Freaks? The man needs some help.

Dave (San Jose)

I have to go with Cotto. As great as Manny is this invinceability he is perceived to have now comes from the Diaz, DLH, and Hatton fights. He's been hurt by much smaller men. Cotto is going to win this.

william marks (uk)

hi dan , how do u see amir khan winning his next fight ?

Dan Rafael

  (3:08 PM)

Fairly easily.

Roderick (San Diego)

If Manny wins, what excuses will the media give to tarnish Manny's victory like they have done in the past. What does he need to do to shut the critics up?

Dan Rafael

  (3:09 PM)

I see you haven't skimped on your idiot pills.

Nick (Harrisburg, PA)

Dan...help me out here...i got my comment put on the Keiran blog, and im going for the double double by getting a post on ur chat...How much more progress do u think we'll see in Manny's right hand in this fight...could be the difference no?

Dan Rafael

  (3:10 PM)

Happy Freak? Manny's right hand has gotten better and better the past few years and he uses it big time now. No reason to think it won't play into tomorrow's fight.

mike (costa rica)

any strip club in toronto will have it

Derek (Edmonton, Alberta)

Nick in Toronto, if you can't order it in your Hotel (you should be able to) Go to Boston Pizza on Yonge and Sheppard . There will be tons of places showing the fight.

Civic (CT)

Roach said KO in Round1 - What's your take?

Dan Rafael

  (3:11 PM)

Freddie doesn't really believe that. He's playing mind games. He wants Cotto to be wary and play it safe in the early rounds, when he is most dangerous. That is my opinion.

Matt (portland, OR)

Can we get some freak picks for the fight? I got Cotto by TKO 11th

Dan Rafael

  (3:11 PM)

Good idea. Freaks?

Luis (PR)

Cotto TKO 10th

John ((ATL GA))

Cotto TKO 10

Nick (Harrisburg, PA)

Pacquiao TKO 10th

jcs (winnipeg, canada)

Pacman, ssplit on the cards

Brad (Milwaukee)

Cotto TKO 9th

Jesus (Yonkers, NY)

Call me a fool, but I got my money on Manny....To many wars for Cotto ..he is to worn out.

Rick (HI)

Pacquiao in 10 TKO.

Ryan (Cleveland)

Cotto UD

Joe (Stamford, CT)

Cotto UD, but worried that he's been in too many wars lately.

Miguel (Fairfax, VA)

Manny TKO 11th

Jeff (Alabama)

Cotto 7th.

Buzz (Montreal)

pac tko8 over cotto

LJ (KC)

Who cares what these loser chatters think, Matt?? Most of them are cubicle monkeys or unemployed losers.

JJD (Seattle)

I like Manny in a close unanimous decision.

Pete (Philly, Pa)

Pacman 43 Seconds

Jose (NYC)

Cotto 7th RD KO on a body punch. I see this fight playingout like DeLaHoya vs Hopkins

David (Winston-Salem)

Cotto by MD

Ali (Southfield, MI)

Cotta TKO 5th

mike (costa rica)

manny sd

Mario ((Houston,TX))

Cotto KO 8

The Mongoose (Brooklyn, NY)

Decision by Pacquiao, UD, but Pac knocks him down once. If EA Sports predicted it, it can't be wrong?

Dario (CA)

Cotto KO11

Jorge (Anaheim CA)

Pacquiao TKO 12

Mike (Massapequa)

Manny TKO 10

Robert the Genius (Greater Philadelphia / Southern NJ)

Pac in the 6th KO! The Cube Monkey has SPOKEN!

Ryan (MGM in line for the weigh in)

I am in line for the weigh in and it seems like there is more cheers for cotto

Dan Rafael

  (3:17 PM)

Reporting from on the scene! Good job, Freak. I was surprised when I went down to the arena very early this morning to get ready for a TV spot, there was already a line to get in for the weigh in.

Andy (Ventura, Ca)

Hell, for the Mayweather-Hatton weigh in, The English fans were in line at FOUR IN THE MORNING!

Dan Rafael

  (3:19 PM)

No they were drinking beer.

Dan Rafael

  (3:20 PM)

OK, Freaks, thanks for chatting today. I have to head to the arena for our next TV spot. Tune into ESPNEWS at approx. 12:50 PT. And don't forgt live weigh in coverage on ESPN and News at approx 3:10 PT. Hope you all enjoy the fight. It should be a great night tomorrow. Talk to you next week. Peace.